Understanding Pet Surgery and Its Importance
Pet surgery can address a wide range of medical conditions, from preventative procedures like spaying and neutering to treatments for injuries or illnesses. Surgical intervention is often necessary to improve your pet’s quality of life or to address critical health issues that cannot be resolved through medication or non-invasive methods. Common surgeries include soft tissue procedures, orthopedic repairs, mass removals, and dental extractions.
Our team carefully evaluates each pet before recommending surgery, performing thorough exams and diagnostic tests to ensure the procedure is appropriate and safe. This comprehensive approach helps us tailor the surgical plan to your pet’s unique needs and health status.
Preparing for Surgery Day
- Surgery patients need to be fasted. No food after 9 PM the night before. Water is okay and can be offered up until you bring your pet to the clinic.
- If your pet is on any regular medications, please inquire ahead of time whether you should give them the day before and the morning of surgery.
- If you have an e-collar or any device or clothing to help prevent your pet from licking their surgical site, please bring it with you the day of surgery.
- Drop-off is typically between 8:45 and 9 AM at the clinic side door. The technician will bring you and your pet into an exam room and go over the estimate and admit form.
Post-Surgical Home Care Instructions
- Your pet’s home care may vary depending on what type of surgery they had. Please always follow the specific advice given to you by our healthcare team after your pet’s surgery. The following are guidelines.
- Directly after a procedure requiring sedation or anesthesia, your pet may be drowsy (sometimes the opposite!). Food should be delayed until later in the evening starting with small amounts the same evening after getting home from a procedure. Water can be offered at any time but in small quantities at a time. Nausea is a common post-surgical side effect the first day and your pet may not want to eat or drink much the first night home.
- Exercise restriction is very important to reduce the risk of sutures breaking down, seroma development, or infection. Typically we recommend 2 weeks of restricted exercise (confine cats to indoors only and keep dogs on leash at all times when outside).
- Please monitor the incision twice daily for the first week and once daily for the second week after surgery. If you notice any extra swelling, redness, discharge, or worsening discomfort, please let us know immediately and a recheck may be needed.
- An e-collar, inflatable neck collar, or protective clothing are often required to prevent licking or chewing of the incision. Check with your vet care team to decide which would be most effective as it depends on the location of the incision site.
- If any stitches are visible, they are typically left in for 14 days. Please book a suture removal appointment to have them removed at the appropriate time. There is no charge for the suture removal after a surgery.
- There may be medications dispensed for your pet at the time of surgery. We will give you instructions on when and how to give them. If your pet is on any other regular medications, please check with us on when they should be resumed.
- If any samples/biopsies were taken at the time of surgery and are to be sent for analysis, you can expect to get results in 1-2 weeks following surgery. We will let you know when the results come in but if you haven’t heard from us by the 2-week post-op mark, please contact us to inquire.
Why Choose Saseenos Veterinary Services for Pet Surgery in Sooke, BC?
Choosing the right provider for your pet’s surgical needs is an important decision. At Saseenos Veterinary Services, our experienced team is committed to delivering personalized care in a supportive environment. We combine our expertise with a compassionate approach, ensuring your pet feels safe and cared for throughout their surgical journey.
Our clinic is equipped to handle a wide range of surgical procedures, allowing us to address your pet’s needs efficiently and effectively. With a focus on communication, we work closely with you to answer any questions and provide the information you need to make informed decisions about your pet’s care.
Schedule a Consultation Today
If your pet requires surgery, Saseenos Veterinary Services is here to provide expert care every step of the way. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about pet surgery in Sooke, BC. Our team is dedicated to supporting your pet’s health and ensuring their recovery is as smooth as possible.